Between Pleasure and Pain Lies Purpose

At the beginning of this week, I intended to share some insights I’d gleaned from a Bible passage. I jotted down my thoughts and saved them online.

Then, as I was listening to a podcast, the speaker mentioned pleasure and pain. Only half paying attention, I heard myself reply out loud, “Between pleasure and pain lies purpose.”

“Hey, that should be my next blog post!” I told myself. So I shelved the first one and began a separate post.

The next day, it dawned on me that the two topics were related. I could combine them into a single blog entry.

So here we are!

The passage of Scripture that I’d studied is found in Philippians 4:10-14. I’ve indented the verses to illustrate how their arrangements emphasize distinct themes.

• 10 –  I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.
  • 11a – I am not saying this because I am in need,
    • 11b-12a – for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
    • 12b – I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
  • 13 – I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.
• 14 – Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.

The outer verses (10 and 14) reveal the apostle Paul’s gratitude for the Philippian church’s interest in helping him. They cared about Paul and he appreciated it.

Taking a step in, the first half of verse 11 and verse 13 announce the apostle’s confidence. He believes that Jesus can and will help him to deal with any issue he faces.

At the center of the passage, the second half of verse 11 and verse 12 describe the extent of Paul’s education. He’s learned to handle the extreme situations of life.

What’s the main point? Paul was self-sufficient. (That’s the meaning of the  original Greek word translated “content” in verse 11.)

This doesn’t mean that Paul ignored God. Far from it; he depends on the Lord quite a bit. But Paul promotes settled contentment; he’s secure.

Also, this doesn’t mean that Paul ignored other people. He’s thankful for the help that the church can provide, but it’s as if he’s indifferent.

Paul demonstrates self-sufficiency in his ministry. He values the assistance of others and prefers to serve in teams, but he’s prepared to go it alone if circumstances dictate. The only thing Paul won’t do is quit serving Jesus. He’s sticking with his mission.

“Between pleasure and pain lies purpose.”

That phrase captures Paul’s attitude. Poverty can be painful; plenty feels pleasurable. The apostle experienced both, but he pursued neither. Rather, he focused on Christ and His kingdom. The Gospel was his purpose.

Committing yourself to the Lord Jesus Christ brings stability to your soul. Life’s ups and downs won’t throw you off track; you’ll stay the course because your decision is firm.

And you’ll realize that Jesus gives you all the strength you need to live out your dedication. Good things won’t distract you; bad things won’t defeat you. Through His Spirit, you’ve already succeeded.

Don’t spend your life pursuing pleasures or fleeing pains. Deal with them in the best way possible–by purposing to follow Jesus. Value Him above all else and you’ll be able to handle anything else.